Having dual citizenship is an increasingly popular option, especially in Europe, where rapidly changing laws and increasing globalisation mean that more and more people are seeking the opportunity to formally belong to two countries. This unique right offers many advantages, but it also comes with certain responsibilities. Therefore, below we will take a look at what dual citizenship is, its benefits, how it can be obtained, and what challenges need to be faced.
What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship means that a person has full citizenship rights and obligations in two countries simultaneously. In practice, this means being able to enjoy the privileges of citizenship, such as free movement, access to education systems or consular protection. Moreover, dual citizenship also allows one to benefit from the legal systems of both countries, which is becoming increasingly important in the context of global mobility.
The most important benefits of dual citizenship can include:
- international mobility
Having the citizenship of a European Union country automatically opens the door to enjoying the rights and privileges within the EU. Citizens can move freely, settle and take up employment in any of the 27 Member States. This is a huge advantage for those running international businesses or dreaming of a career abroad.
- Access to education and health
As a citizen of a country, you are entitled to benefit from its education and healthcare system. For example, people with British and Irish citizenship can benefit from the education systems in both countries on an equal footing with their residents.
- professional and economic development
Citizenship of the other country opens up access to labour markets, investment and various grants and support programmes. This is particularly advantageous for running a business or developing a career in multinational corporations.
- The right to vote and participate in politics
Citizens with two citizenships have the right to participate in parliamentary and local elections in both countries, allowing them to actively influence politics in two different environments.
- Cultural heritage and family ties
Dual citizenship is also a question of identity. It provides an opportunity to be more closely connected to the culture and traditions of one’s ancestors, and makes it easier to maintain contact with family living in another country.
How can dual citizenship be obtained?
Dual citizenship in Europe can be obtained in several ways. The main ones are:
- citizenship by descent (ius sanguinis)
Many countries in Europe make it possible to obtain citizenship by descent. An example is Italy, which offers citizenship to persons whose ancestors were citizens of that country. Similar arrangements exist in Poland or Ireland, where one can apply for citizenship if one’s ancestors were citizens before the war. Therefore, in case you would like to have a second, Polish citizenship, it is worth doing some research towards Polish Citizenship.
- Citizenship by naturalisation
The naturalisation process involves people who have been legally resident in a country for a long period of time, usually between 5 and 10 years. It is important to fulfil certain conditions, such as knowledge of the language and local culture.
- Citizenship by investment
Some countries, such as Malta or Portugal, offer the possibility to obtain citizenship in exchange for significant investment in the local economy. These are so-called ‘golden visa’ programmes, which are popular with those seeking stable opportunities to live and work in Europe.
- Citizenship by marriage
Marrying a national can speed up the process of obtaining citizenship, although this is not automatic in every case. In some countries, such as Spain, living together for a certain period of time is required.
Exceptions and limitations
While dual citizenship has numerous benefits, there are also challenges and limitations to be aware of. These mainly include:
– Double taxation
In some cases, having dual citizenship may involve paying taxes in both countries. It is advisable to consult a tax advisor before making a decision.
– Military obligations
In some countries, such as Greece, people with dual citizenship may be required to perform military service.
– National law and citizenship
Not all countries accept dual citizenship. Austria and the Netherlands usually require renunciation of previous citizenship, unless there are special circumstances.
Is it worth applying for dual citizenship?
The decision to apply for dual citizenship is complex and should be tailored to individual needs and circumstances. For many people, having a dual citizenship is not just a formality, but mainly the possibility to enjoy different rights and privileges in two different countries. This means higher mobility, access to the labour market, education or healthcare in both countries. In the case of the European Union, it also means full access to citizenship rights in 27 Member States.
On the other hand, having two citizenships brings with it additional responsibilities, which may include tax issues, military service or the need to comply with laws in two different jurisdictions. Indeed, each nationality imposes certain obligations on the individual which may require greater commitment and attention. It is therefore worth carefully considering your priorities and potential benefits in terms of your personal situations.
Which countries do not recognise dual citizenship?
While most European countries are adopting arrangements to allow dual citizenship, some countries still treat the issue restrictively. Austria and the Netherlands, for example, generally require the renunciation of an existing nationality when acquiring a new one, unless there are special circumstances, such as marrying a national or being born into a multinational family.
In such cases, the procedures become more complicated and the potential benefits need to be carefully weighed against the required obligations. It is also worth bearing in mind that dual nationality rules may vary according to changing government policies. It is advisable to consult an immigration lawyer before making a decision to understand local regulations and avoid potential legal difficulties.
